Monday, February 12, 2018

Hluhluwe - Wild Dogs and more

Another quick update. Fantastic first day in Hluhluwe. We worked the eastern section (from Memorial Gate to Siwasawakosikasi campsite both in the morning and evening. Obvious personal highlight of the day was a fantastic encounter with a pack of seven Wild Dogs. A childhood dream that has come true.

Other mammal highlights were two sleepy Lions, two White Rhinos, and six Elephants.

In the morning I was quite overwhelmed by all the bird calls - it's been 25 years since I last visited this region. However, by the end of the day I think I was doing OK with calls of most species. Nothing rare today - just nice bush birding - here's my eBird checklist.

Purple-crested Turaco - stunning bird

Black-backed Puffback - what an eye!

Most impressive invert was this huge and beautiful Emperor Moth (Aurivillius fuscus) at Hilltop Lodge: